Serena Williams ends career with third-round loss in New York

Serena Williams bowed out of the US Open and professional tennis with a third-round defeat by Ajla Tomljanovic.

Williams' performances against Danka Kovinic and Anett Kontaveit had given hope to the tens of thousands who have flocked to Flushing Meadows hoping her swansong could have a fairy-tale ending.

But despite a memorable second-set fightback in a raucous atmosphere, there will be no record-equalling 24th grand slam singles title, with Williams succumbing to a 7-5 6-7 (4) 6-1 loss.

The 40-year-old, who played her first professional tennis match back in 1995, walked calmly to the net after netting a final forehand before waving to all sides of Arthur Ashe Stadium while 'Simply The Best’ played over the loudspeakers.

Addressing the crowd through tears, Williams said: "Thank you so much, you guys were amazing. I tried. Thank you daddy, I know you’re watching. Thanks mom.

"I just thank everyone that’s here, that’s been on my side for so many years, literally decades, But it all started with my parents and they deserve everything so I’m really grateful for them. And I wouldn’t be Serena if there wasn’t Venus, so thank you Venus. It’s been a fun ride."

Asked whether there could be another chapter, Williams added: "I don’t think so but you never know."

Williams, who again took her entrance after a montage hailing her greatness, made a nervous start and dropped serve straight away but she quickly rallied, broke Tomljanovic back again and began to get on top.

Williams’ movement was sharp and her groundstrokes strong, and Arthur Ashe was ready to celebrate another set in the bag when she broke serve again to lead 5-3.

But Williams, who has played very little tennis in the last 18 months, tightened up at just the wrong moment,